Organizational history:
The Anchorage Youth Symphony (AYS) began in 1965 when Frank Pinkerton assembled an orchestra in which young musicians had the opportunity to perform works by the great composers, refine their craft, and develop an appreciation for classical music. The Anchorage School District, private high schools, and Matanuska Valley High Schools played a key role in the development of the AYS orchestra. A majority of AYS musicians received their training in music programs offered in elementary school, junior high, and high school. Members of AYS were high school students selected through a competitive process. Since its inception, the Anchorage Youth Symphony performed not only for audiences in Alaska, but in Washington State, New York, and Washington D.C. Tours included international destinations such as Canada, Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand. The Anchorage Youth Symphony Association, Inc., which sponsors the Anchorage Youth Symphony and their activities, provides a scholarship program.